Best Places to Eat in Laguna Beach

Whether you’re in the mood for upscale seafood, crave-worthy tacos, or sweet treats by the sea, Laguna Beach has a plate for every palate. Here’s your guide to the most memorable spots—some famous, others deliciously under the radar, and a few proudly featured on the Laguna Beach Food Tour.

🌊 Splashes (Surf & Sand Resort)

Vibe: Elegant coastal
Try: Citrus-marinated sea bass, craft cocktails
Why Go: One of the most iconic oceanfront dining spots—wave views from every table.

🇲🇽 Las Brisas

Vibe: Cliffside Mexican brunch classic
Try: Lobster Benedict, ceviche, Cadillac margaritas
Why Go: Sit on the patio for sweeping Pacific views with Baja-Californian flair.

🐟 Driftwood Kitchen

Vibe: Upscale yet relaxed
Try: Oysters, lobster carbonara, ocean-to-table seafood
Why Go: Floor-to-ceiling windows right over the sand.

🥩 Selanne Steak Tavern

Vibe: Refined but cozy
Try: Wagyu filet, truffle mac, fine wines
Why Go: Owned by NHL legend Teemu Selanne—top-tier steaks in a historic house.

🍸 Broadway by Amar Santana

Vibe: Modern fusion
Try: Hamachi sashimi, duck breast, house cocktails
Why Go: A true chef-driven experience by a “Top Chef” finalist.

🥗 Zinc Café & Market

Vibe: Light and local
Try: Quinoa bowls, avocado toast, matcha lattes
Why Go: Great for brunch or working lunch in a charming, leafy courtyard.

🌯 Carmelita’s Kitchen

Vibe: Upscale Mexican
Try: Carnitas tacos, enchiladas suizas, spicy margaritas
Why Go: A festive, family-run favorite with rich flavors and bold colors.

🥤 The Stand Natural Foods

Vibe: Earthy and healthy
Try: Vegan burritos, smoothies, tahini kale salad
Why Go: A tiny plant-based shack with a cult following.

🍔 Crystal Cove Shake Shack

Vibe: Retro cliffside diner
Try: Ahi burger, chili fries, old-fashioned shakes
Why Go: Vintage vibes with million-dollar views.

🍽️ Nick’s & South of Nick’s

Vibe: Crowd-pleasing & polished
Try: Buttermilk fried chicken, fish sandwiches, short rib tacos
Why Go: Go-to staples for visitors and locals alike.

🌴 Royal Hawaiian Fire Grill

Vibe: Retro tiki with a modern twist
Try: Mai Tais, Huli Huli chicken, island short ribs
Why Go: One of the featured stops on the Laguna Beach Food Tour, this revamped legend serves up Polynesian vibes and flavorful dishes.

🧆 GG’s Mediterranean Bistro

Vibe: Cozy, casual, and authentic
Try: Falafel wraps, lamb kabobs, house hummus
Why Go: A hidden gem in the village with a warm family feel—and another featured stop on the Laguna Beach Food Tour.

🌮 Rasta Taco

Vibe: Baja-Jamaican street food
Try: Jerk chicken tacos, plantains, mango salsa
Why Go: Fun, funky, and full of flavor—also part of the Laguna Beach Food Tour.

🍨 Dolce Gelato

Vibe: Sweet & simple
Try: Pistachio, stracciatella, seasonal fruit sorbets
Why Go: Homemade Italian gelato just steps from the beach—a refreshing food tour favorite.